INTEGRATED ELECTRO-MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC MICROPUMPS AND METHODS FOR PUMPING FLUIDS

摘要

An integrated electro-magnetohydrodynamic pump may include a flow channel adapted to contain a fluid to be pumped and a plurality of electrodes positioned adjacent the flow channel. Voltage control means operatively associated with the plurality of electrodes applies a voltage potential on the plurality of electrodes. A plurality of magnets are also positioned adjacent the flow channel. Magnet control means operatively associated with the plurality of magnets changes magnetic fields produced by the plurality of magnets with respect to the flow channel. The voltage control means and the magnet control means are operable to pump fluid contained in the flow channel by an electro-osmotic flow process and by a magnetohydrodynamic flow process.